2 Chronicles 6:21

Hear the plea of Your servant and of Your people Israel when they pray toward this place. May You hear from heaven, Your dwelling place. May You hear and forgive.

Study Bible

Hear the plea
The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just the act of hearing but also understanding and responding. This plea is a heartfelt request for God’s attention and intervention. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the act of hearing was often associated with the authority to act. Solomon is asking God to be attentive to the cries of His people, acknowledging His sovereignty and willingness to engage with human affairs.

of Your servant
The term "servant" here, "עֶבֶד" (eved), denotes a position of humility and submission. Solomon, despite being a king, recognizes his role as a servant of God. This reflects a biblical principle that true leadership is rooted in servanthood, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, notably in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

and Your people Israel
"Israel" refers to the covenant people of God, chosen to be a light to the nations. The historical context here is significant; Israel is at the height of its united monarchy under Solomon. The plea is not just for the king but for the entire nation, emphasizing communal intercession and the collective identity of God’s people.

when they pray toward this place
"This place" refers to the newly constructed temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon has dedicated to God. The temple serves as a physical focal point for worship and prayer, symbolizing God’s presence among His people. Archaeologically, the temple was a magnificent structure, reflecting the glory and majesty of God. The act of praying toward the temple signifies a directed and intentional act of worship, acknowledging God’s dwelling among His people.

May You hear from heaven
"Heaven" is described as God’s true dwelling place, transcending the physical temple. The Hebrew word "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim) conveys the idea of the heavens or the sky, often used to denote God’s omnipresence and sovereignty. This phrase acknowledges that while God’s presence is symbolically in the temple, His true throne is in the heavens, ruling over all creation.

Your dwelling place
This phrase reinforces the concept of God’s transcendence and immanence. While God is omnipresent, He chooses to dwell among His people, first in the tabernacle, then in the temple, and ultimately in the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit. This duality of God’s dwelling is a profound mystery, inviting believers to experience His presence both corporately and personally.

May You hear and forgive
Forgiveness is a central theme in the biblical narrative, essential for restoring the broken relationship between God and humanity. The Hebrew word for "forgive" is "סָלַח" (salach), which implies a complete removal of guilt. Solomon’s prayer acknowledges human sinfulness and the need for divine mercy. This plea for forgiveness is a precursor to the ultimate forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ, who fulfills the sacrificial system and provides eternal reconciliation with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who built the temple in Jerusalem and is offering this prayer of dedication.

2. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. The People of Israel
The chosen people of God, who are being called to pray toward the temple.

4. Heaven
Described as God's dwelling place, from where He hears and answers prayers.

5. Forgiveness
A key theme in Solomon's prayer, highlighting the need for divine mercy and grace.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of Prayer
Solomon's prayer underscores the importance of prayer in the life of believers. We are encouraged to bring our supplications before God, trusting that He hears us.

God's Dwelling Place
While the temple was a physical symbol of God's presence, believers today understand that God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit. Our bodies are now temples of the Holy Spirit.

The Need for Forgiveness
Solomon's plea for forgiveness highlights the human condition and our need for God's mercy. We are reminded to seek forgiveness regularly and to extend it to others.

The Role of Intercession
Solomon intercedes on behalf of the people, demonstrating the power and responsibility of intercessory prayer. We are called to pray not only for ourselves but also for others.

The Assurance of Being Heard
The repeated request for God to "hear" emphasizes the assurance that God listens to the prayers of His people. This assurance should encourage us to pray with confidence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:21 reflect the relationship between God and His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of the temple as a place of prayer to our personal prayer lives today?

3. How does the theme of forgiveness in Solomon's prayer relate to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in your life, and how can you grow in this area?

5. How can the assurance that God hears our prayers impact the way we approach Him in prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:30
This parallel passage also records Solomon's prayer of dedication, emphasizing the importance of the temple as a place of prayer and forgiveness.

Psalm 5:7
This verse speaks of worshiping toward God's holy temple, reinforcing the idea of the temple as a focal point for prayer.

Daniel 6:10
Daniel's practice of praying toward Jerusalem, even in exile, reflects the enduring significance of the temple as a symbol of God's presence.

Matthew 6:9-13
Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will and forgiveness, echoing themes from Solomon's prayer.